An unauthorized caravan site established over the May bank holiday weekend in Willows Green, Essex, has been linked to a convicted drug dealer, raising concerns about organized land grabs and the enforcement of planning regulations.

Land Ownership and Recent Activity

The four-acre site, designated as a wildlife haven, was quickly occupied while the local council was closed for the holiday. This tactic is frequently employed to establish unauthorized developments and then apply for retrospective planning permission. A similar situation is unfolding at Three Acres near Canterbury, where static homes and building materials have been delivered.

Company Connections

The land in Felsted is owned by UK Real Estate and Land 2 Limited. The company was purchased for £125,000 in cash in April 2025, with potential for additional payments based on future land value increases. Despite a stop notice being issued for the Canterbury site, no action has been taken regarding the Felsted location.

Convicted Drug Dealer Involved

One director of UK Real Estate and Land 2 Limited is Chad Brady, 31, who was previously convicted of managing a cocaine dealing operation in Bridlington. Brady received a suspended prison sentence and community service, and he recruited his sister as a runner in the operation.

Brady resigned as a director in January as his court case progressed, but remains involved in numerous other companies, including a yoga school. Other directors include David Malcolm Kaye, with involvement in over 500 companies, and Lauren Anne Connell, linked to 33 dissolved firms.

Development Details

The illegal development involved approximately 30 vehicles, the removal of vegetation, and the laying of hardcore and tarmac, all conducted under the cover of darkness. The land was originally sold by a farmer a year ago and is believed to have been subdivided into smaller plots.

Political Response and Local Concerns

Conservative MP James Cleverly, whose constituency includes the site, has publicly condemned the actions as “gaming the system” and highlighted a perceived “two-tier justice” regarding traveller encampments. He previously warned of the potential for an illegal camp and criticized the lack of enforcement.

Cleverly suggested that authorities may be hesitant to act due to fears of accusations of racism. The rapid construction, utilizing floodlights and generators, has sparked outrage among local residents, who are calling for swift action to address the unauthorized development and prevent further encroachment on green spaces.